Easy Escapes: Isle of Man

There’s a reason why city breaks are so popular. They’re easy to get to, you can see everything you want to in two days and you don’t have to take time off work for them. But, going from city to city isn’t the most adventurous way to spend your time.

Enter the Isle of Man.

Here is a place where the air is clean, the people are lovely (honestly, everyone you meet will have a smile on their face) and the exciting experiences are many. With more than 40 per cent of the land on the Isle of Man unpopulated, you’ll enjoy exploring the wilderness, while reaping the benefits of the relaxing countryside.

If you’re searching for the best weekend breaks or looking for the best breaks during school break, you’ve just found it.

WHY GO: You’ll be spoilt for choice with delicious food, spectacular landscapes, a plethora of wildlife, scenic drives and old world charm. Known for its rugged coastline, rural landscape and medieval castles, the Isle Man is just as romantic as it is adventuresome. The island, itself, has been inhabited since before 6500 BC and is a self-governingCrown dependency in theIrish Sea betweenEngland and Northern Ireland – making for a very interesting history. It’s also home to the world renowned motorbike race, Isle of Man TT – one of the most prestigious motorcycle race in the world, seen as the ultimate test for competitors and machines alike.

STAY AT: The Granary at Grenaby Estates. These cottages are like a (luxury) home away from home. On a farm. With a giant chess set!

We were welcomed with a pack including Manx butter, milk and honey, fresh eggs from their farm chickens, local freshly baked bread and cookies, plus coffee and hot chocolate pods for our very own Dolce Gusto coffee machine – which made the perfect start and end to our day.

WHEN: Any time. Although, the Isle of Man TT occurs annually in May or June. The Isle of Man typically enjoys ‘British’ weather, however many of the activities found on this island have this fact in mind.

YOU REALLY MUST: Go on a segway tour through South Barrule Plantation. You may have seen these tours throughout different cities, but we doubt you’ve ever been on one as fun as this. The initial phase is all about learning how to operate a segway safely. But, once you have a grip on this you’ll be taken off road through the forest. The views will leave you feeling spoilt to say the least.

If you’re up for a real adventure, visit The Venture Centre and go on a gorge walk. You’ll be taken into the actual water, climb waterfalls and swim across ponds while negotiating a river bed. If you want to get your blood pumping, this will do it.

Also take a tour with former Manx National Heritage countryside warden, John ‘Dog‘ Collister. He will show you areas you would never stumble across. And you’ll be happy you visited.

DINE AT: Little Fish Cafe in Douglas. The atmosphere is welcoming and the interior will give you ideas for own home and the seafood is fresh. Think lobster, oysters and the best fish and chips we’ve had in a while.

If you happen to be in Peel, make sure you stop at The Boatyard. We had their fish gratin and honestly felt like we had just been given a big warm hug. Comfort food at its best.

And if you’re up for a delicious, fancy dinner, take a trip to The Abbey in Ballasalla. The service is impeccable and the food is lip smackingly good. During each course, our eyes lightened up as plates upon plates of artistic, tasty food landed in front of us. The standout dishes? King Scallops, parsnip puree, pancetta, kale for entree; Local lamb, hay, garlic, figs, yoghurt for main; and Espresso bomb for dessert. On a side note – the wine list is fantastic and the prices are extremely reasonable.

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